Using targeted mRNA therapies to treat acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
Official title: Targeted mRNA therapies treating ARDS
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-10891734 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new treatment for people with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) by using tiny particles to deliver special messages to help heal the cells in their lungs, especially for those who have been seriously affected by influenza or COVID-19.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $110,623 |
| NIH project number | 5K99HL166870-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10891734 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from acute respiratory distress syndrome, especially those with severe cases related to viral infections like COVID-19.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with chronic respiratory conditions or those not experiencing acute respiratory distress may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative therapies using targeted mRNA delivered through specially designed nanoparticles to treat acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The approach aims to enhance the health of endothelial cells by delivering specific mRNA that can help restore their function. The research is being conducted at the University of Chicago, where a team of expert scientists is guiding the project. Patients with ARDS, particularly those affected by severe influenza or COVID-19, may benefit from this novel treatment strategy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for ARDS, potentially reducing mortality rates associated with severe respiratory conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using targeted nanoparticle delivery systems for mRNA therapies, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Zhengjie — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Zhengjie
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Coordinating ARDS, Pneumonia, and Sepsis research to improve care
A national coordinating center helps researchers studying ARDS and related infections work together more efficiently to learn what helps patients recover.
-
Lipid-gene Profiles in Septic ARDS
A Mayo Clinic team is studying how dysfunctional HDL in sepsis relates to different ARDS patient outcomes, aiming to find features that could guide better treatment.
-
Improving blood vessel repair after pediatric ARDS
Aims to better repair the lungs of children who have ARDS by delivering targeted therapy to lung blood vessels using tiny nanoparticles.
-
NOX4 links to ARDS risk and progression
Aims to understand how NOX4-driven cell damage may make some adults with ARDS worse off and how this could lead to earlier, targeted care.
-
Leading causes of death in alcoholic ARDS patients using clinical data
This project uses big clinical data and AI to find the main factors that cause death in adults with ARDS who have alcohol use issues, aiming to improve understanding and care.
-
Targeting aging-related blood vessel injury to prevent ARDS in older lungs
Aims to find ways to protect lung blood vessels in older adults to prevent dangerous lung swelling (ARDS).
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.